Malta is an amazing country known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. To help plan your trip within your budget, our travel cost guide has everything you need for your journey. With tips and prices for hotels, food, activities, and transit, you can enjoy every moment without worrying about your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Malta?
You should plan to spend around $151 (€139) per day on your vacation in Malta. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $58 (€54) on meals
- $25 (€23) on local transportation
- $142 (€130) on hotels
A one week trip to Malta for two people costs, on average, $2,121 (€1,946). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,060
€973
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2 Weeks
Per person
$2,121
€1,946
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One Month
Per person
$4,544
€4,170
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,121
€1,946
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$4,241
€3,892
-
One Month
For a couple
$9,089
€8,340
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Malta cost?
A one week trip to Malta usually costs around $1,060 (€973) for one person and $2,121 (€1,946) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Malta on average costs around $2,121 (€1,946) for one person and $4,241 (€3,892) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Malta will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Malta on average costs around $4,544 (€4,170) for one person and $9,089 (€8,340) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Malta expensive to visit?
Malta is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Malta is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Latvia or Sweden.
Malta boasts a wide variety of attractions and accommodations, catering to visitors with different budgets and travel styles. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate hostels in Valletta, but there are also luxurious hotel options, plus mid-range stays perfect for families or couples.
Sure, Malta can cost a lot, but with smart choices like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities, you can stretch your budget further.
On average, budget travelers spend $65 (€60) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $151 (€139) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $302 (€276) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Malta.
For more details, see Is Malta Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Malta?
The average Malta trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Malta travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Malta cost?
Malta on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$31
(€28)
|
$71
(€65)
|
$135
(€124)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$9.79
(€8.99)
|
$25
(€23)
|
$65
(€59)
|
|
Food 2
|
$25
(€23)
|
$58
(€54)
|
$113
(€104)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$12
(€11)
|
$29
(€27)
|
$68
(€63)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$4-11
(€3-10)
|
$9-26
(€8-24)
|
$18-54
(€17-50)
|
Gozo, Malta
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's essential to have a grounded and realistic perspective on your budget. While many believe they can travel as "budget" travelers on a mere $65 a day like a backpacker, the reality is that most people struggle to enjoy that style of travel. Consider what makes you happy and how you've traveled before. Do you prefer the comfort of resorts, the convenience of vacation rentals, or the simple camaraderie of hostels? Is dining out a top priority for you? Do you plan to visit the major attractions? Your answers to these questions will certainly impact your overall travel budget.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
Many people might hear that you can explore Malta for just $65 a day, but if you're not ready to sacrifice some comforts, be prepared to spend quite a bit more.
Backpackers often manage to stick to this tight budget, but it usually means sleeping in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest eateries or grabbing fast food, relying on public transport or walking everywhere, and limiting themselves to free attractions.
Fortunately, Malta has a large number of hostels. You'll find the greatest concentration in Valletta. For all visitors to Malta, food is a major highlight, but budget travelers often eat street food or prepare meals at their hostels, which may mean they miss out on some of the culinary delights.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling as a couple or family, you'll probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular restaurants, and visit major museums and attractions that require entry fees. You'll want to visit the major attractions, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities do come with a price tag. With that in mind, you should realistically plan for a daily budget of about $151 per person.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Malta. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. In places like Valletta, which are particularly family-friendly, you'll find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Also, in St Julians, Spinola Hotel Paceville is a good kid-friendly option, and in Valletta, Ursulino Valletta is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Malta here.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
For a trip filled with top-notch service and every possible comfort, expect your budget to reach around $302 per day, per person. Staying in high-end accommodations, enjoying gourmet meals, going on lavish adventures, and hiring personal drivers comes with a luxury price tag. You'll be in the company of the wealthy in locations like Valletta. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as Sicily and Malta - offered by My Art Collection Travel.
Accommodation Budget in Malta
Malta has a wide range of accommodation prices, and it can be surprising how much prices fluctuate. Budget hotels can often be much cheaper than higher-end places, and during peak season, everything costs much more. For a better deal, try visiting in the low season, and book early to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Malta for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $142 (€130). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $71 (€65) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Malta? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Valletta
There's a wide range of hotel prices in Valletta. You can expect to spend anywhere from $73 to $310 depending on your budget and needs. Also, a great hotel option is Ursulino Valletta that runs about $123 per night. You can expect to pay around $20 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.
Local Transportation Budget in Malta
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $25 (€23) per person, per day, on local transportation in Malta. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Malta is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$25
€23
Malta offers an impressive train system that links you to almost every part of the country. The prices are quite reasonable, and the journeys are comfortable and quick. When the rail system doesn't cover your destination, you can count on long-distance and regional buses.
In Malta, public transit options are somewhat limited in many cities, especially if you're not heading to the biggest cities. It's advisable to rent a car or arrange for a form of transportation in advance, such as a guided tour. However, keep in mind that this might affect your overall trip budget.
When planning a trip to the countryside, renting a car is likely the best option. Just remember that the standard vehicle in Europe is often a manual transmission, and choosing an automatic can raise your rental costs. Be sure to reserve your car well in advance since budget-friendly options can get booked up fast.
If you're driving in a larger city, it's a good idea to ask your hotel about parking options ahead of time. You might need to pay for parking either at the hotel or in a nearby public garage. It could save you money to find a parking spot further away from the city center.
Food Budget in Malta
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Malta can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Malta is $58 (€54) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$58
€54
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Malta is about $58 (€54) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $25 to $113 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Malta are as follows:
- Breakfast: $11 to $18
- Lunch: $9 to $29
- Dinner: $20 to $47
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $9
Many of the restaurants near the resort areas of Malta cater specifically to tourists. It's hard to find an authentically traditional meal, but if you're willing to seek it out, there are several Maltese restaurants available. Traditional Maltese food was created to feed hard working farmers or fishermen. The meals are hearty and involve stews and soups. Many dishes are vegetable or fish based, although rabbit is traditionally prepared for celebrations.
Fenkata:This meal is traditionally prepared for celebrations in Malta. It's a feast that includes rabbit that has been marinated overnight in a sauce made of wine and bay leaves. The rabbit is typically served as part of two courses. The first course is a spaghetti served with rabbit sauce. Then the rabbit meat is served as a stew. It's a hearty dish that is often referred to as the national dish of Malta. There are a handful of restaurants that offer guests this meal.
Arjoli:This is a mixture of vegetables that have been seasoned with spices and oil. They include butter beans, a puree made from broadbeans and herbs, and a local delicacy such as Maltese sausage of gbejniet, which is a form of goat or sheep milk cheese.
Soppa Ta' L-armla: Known as widow's soup, this is a working man's meal. The soup is made of a course mash of seasonal vegetables which are cooked in a thick tomato stock.
Malta is a world-class destination for food lovers, and its cuisine is appreciated everywhere. A large number of visitors travel just to indulge in the local fare. Some of the best cities for culinary experiences are Valletta.
Valletta
Many visitors enjoy sampling the different restaurants in Valletta. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).
If you're eating out with children, seek out restaurants that provide a kids menu. This can significantly reduce your dining expenses, as those options are generally lower priced. Some places may not showcase their kids' meals, so it's always smart to ask the waiter before ordering.
Many hotels include breakfast in their price, while some add it on as an extra charge. The price and quality can vary depending on the hotel. Knowing ahead of time can help you decide if you need to spend even more money. Maybe it's worth your money for the delicious buffet at the hotel. Or, perhaps you should just go to a nearby bakery or cafe that's much cheaper.
Keep a water bottle with you instead of constantly buying drinks. It's a good way to help the environment as well.
When preparing for a tour, make sure you know in advance what meals are included. You might be responsible for paying for some food, which can raise your costs.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Malta, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Wine Tasting & Open Kitchen Dinner in 17 Mons Vella for $99 details
- Private Food Tour in Valletta for $231 details
- Folklore Dinner Show at a Traditional Restaurant for $64 details
- Romantic Italian Cuisine Dinner in Valletta for $55 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Malta
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Malta typically cost an average of $29 (€27) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$29
€27
In Malta, you'll discover numerous destinations that are less crowded with tourists compared to other countries, allowing you to uncover some authentic hidden gems. Among the more popular spots are Valletta.
Valletta
Valletta is the small but impressive capital of the Mediterranean island nation of Malta. The town is compact and rich in history and culture. It looks out over one of the most magnificent harbors in Europe and is surrounding by ancient fortifications. The old town is easily explored on foot as you soak up the Mediterranean sunshine and dine at longstanding local restaurants.
A nice way to explore destinations in Malta is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- 2hr Gozo Segway Tour for $49 details
- Customised tour malta Blue grotto,Dingli, Mdina and Valletta for $268 details
- Half-Day Private Guided Tour in Malta with Pick Up for $247 details
- Victoria Gozo Sunset Walking Food and Drink Tour for $65 details
Nightlife Budget in Malta
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $17 (€16) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Malta per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$17
€16
If you're seeking a fun nightlife experience, Malta is the place to be, with its wide array of bars, clubs, and parties. Some of the best cities for a lively night out include Valletta.
Valletta
Nightlife in Valletta is not to be missed. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.
Cutting back on drinks while enjoying the nightlife can really help you save money on your trip.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Malta. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- The Brewery Experience & beer tasting including transport for $34 details
- The Three Cities and Wine Tasting Tour for $43 details
- The Brewery Experience Self-Guided Tour with Tasting & Transport for $34 details
- The Farsons Brewery & Gastro experience in Birkirkara for $52 details
Travel Costs Last Updated: Jun 23, 2023
Traveling in Malta
Valletta, Malta
Located in the Mediterranean Sea south of Sicily, Malta is a small, island country. The three largest of the islands are inhabited. These include Malta, Gozo and Comino. The country's location in the Mediterranean Sea influences its climate. The winters can be windy and wet, but summers are almost always hot and dry. If you're interested in spending time on the beach it's best to visit the country sometime between the end of April and the end of October when the weather is best.
Malta's coastline has many dramatic cliffs and bays that serve as excellent harbors. The inland is low, rocky and flat. Most visitors to the country head to Malta Island. This is, by far, the largest of the three populated islands. It is the main population center and has the largest cities.
Comino is the smallest of the three inhabited islands. The majority of this island is a nature reserve, and the isolated feel of the island make it an interesting place to visit. There is one hotel that generally serves international visitors that are on all inclusive package tours. The island's most famous sight is the Blue Lagoon which has beautiful crystal clear water that is great for swimming.
Gozo is smaller and less developed than Malta Island. It's only 95 kilometers from Sicily and has a remote and isolated atmosphere. It's a popular travel destination for those who want to experience the culture and beautiful countryside. There are many old churches and historic fortifications that are worth exploring. It's a great place to visit as an excursion from Malta or on it's own for a few days.
At A Glance
- If you're flying to Malta from mainland Europe, you have a handful of options. The country's national carrier is Air Malta, which has regular connections to Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Ryanair offers affordable flights from a good number of cities within Europe and Easyjet has a few connections as well. Wizzair is an option if you're coming from Eastern Europe. Many of these flights are seasonal, and do not fly during the fall and winter months, so plan ahead.
- Another option is to arrive in Malta by boat. Ferries run from the Sicilian port of Pozzallo, Italy. The trip takes about 90 minutes and currently the only company is Virtu Ferries. Trips do not occur daily so check a schedule in advance. Flights are comparable in price to ferries so unless you're traveling with a vehicle (which can be transported on the ferry), flying may be your most convenient option.
- The official languages of Malta are Maltese and English. Italian is quite common as well and there are some people who speak basic French. Almost all Maltese speak English fluently. Official documents are written in both Maltese and English and some media is broadcast in English.
- During the summer months there are plenty of outdoor sports and activities for visitors. Hiking in the countryside or along the coast is a favorite activity, as is sailing and visiting the country's impressive caves. There are also some great dive sights with high visibility and interesting marine life. Most of the dives sites are close to shore making them easily accessible.
- There are a handful of great festivals during the spring and summer months in Malta as well. These include the Valletta Carnival, the Jazz Festival, the Arts Festival and the Farsons Great Beer Festival. Festivals are a great way to experience the country's culture and local cuisine, so if you happen to be in town during one, it is worth a trip.
Related
Not sue what to pack? Not sure where to stay? For more information on traveling to this small but amazing country,
check out these Malta Insider Tips.
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Traveling alone Milan or Rome?
Find a Contiki tour to Europe.
Top Tourist Attractions
Mdina: This ancient capital is strategically located at a high point on the island. This fortress is now surrounded by the town of Rabat and is a must-see for any visitor to the country. It has impressive architecture, history, and a breathtaking view. It's a wonderful place to linger in the evening after the day trippers have left, as the setting becomes quite peaceful and beautiful.
Valletta: This capital city is very vibrant with a rich history. There is excellent shopping, impressive museums, and a good number of cultural sights that are worth visiting. In particular, you should make a point of visiting St John's Co-Cathedral.
Gozo:This island's rural atmosphere make it an interesting and pleasant place to visit. There is impressive geography with an inland sea that has been carved out by the Mediterranean. It is also worth visiting the Citadel, which can be compared to Mdina. It takes 25 minutes to reach Gozo from Cirkewwa, Malta's harbor.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.